Professor Fritz Bauerschmidt, Chair of the Department of Theology at Loyola University Maryland spoke with WBAL's Bill Vanko about the Pope's resignation. Download This File

Archbishop William Lori says he was surprised to learn Monday morning that Pope Benedict had announced his resignation.

During a meeting of Cardinals in Rome, the Pope announced he would be leaving office at the end of February. He cited his age and health as reasons for his departure.

Archbishop Lori says it was a humble decision by the Pope. Lori says it's really remarkable that he recognizes the stamina needed to be the pope and his ability to reach this decision.

Lori is asking everyone in the Archdiocese of Baltimore to pray about the Pope's decision.

The College of Cardinals will decide on the next pope and are expected to make their decision by Easter.

"I certainly think they will take into account the demands of the job and the needs of the Church and try to find someone that will be able to provide the leadership of the Church that will be necessary for the times to come," Lori tells WBAL Radio.

The former Archbishop of Baltimore, Cardinal Edwin O'Brien will be among the 118 cardinals to make the decision on the next pope.

Archbishop Lori says he has spoken to Cardinal O'Brien who was there in Rome for the Pope's announcement. Lori says it is a point of great pride that one of our own is going to be casting a vote.

Lori says this a huge decision not just for the Catholic Church but for the whole world.